THE Babes in the Wood was this year’s pantomime offering served up by the Berkeley Amateur Dramatic Society, and this talented company continue to push the boundaries of seasonal entertainment.

As usual they played to delighted packed houses at the Barn Function Centre Cattle Country. Boos and hisses rang out for the Sheriff of Nottingham (Tony Cullimore) as he instructed his hapless henchmen Floggem and Whippem, played with aplomb by Billy Furey and George Knight, to do away with the eponymous children. He was also aided and abetted by Nell Nightshade, the Witch of Sherwood Forest, a ‘hissterical’ performance by Tigre Coleman.

The cheers were reserved for Robin Hood (a sparky performance by Rachel Sheldon) as she of course organised the safe return of the Babes. Morgan Harper and Shannon Woolams deserve special credit for their enthusiastic portrayal of Jack and Jill.

Wolf whistles as well as laughs aplenty were provided by resident dame Bob Hunt, this time playing Nurse Jemima Jollop in a fetching blue polka dot dress and not matching orange and black stockings. This old pro milked the audience for laughs with his customary comic timing and witty ad libs.

The show was directed by V Boobyer who also fulfilled many of the vital backstage tasks to make it a great evening out for the residents of Berkeley.

Review by Tim Tynan